Portret van Josephus Michael Johannes van Portugal 1724 - 1780

Jacob Houbraken etched this portrait of Josephus Michael Johannes van Portugal. Note the armor, a symbol of martial power, yet softened by the delicate lace collar and the flowing wig. The armor, a vestige of medieval chivalry, evokes the classical heroes of antiquity, figures like Mars, the god of war. This motif transcends centuries, appearing in Roman sculptures and Renaissance paintings, each time signifying strength and protection. The armor presents a fascinating duality: it is both a shield against the outside world and a heavy burden, symbolizing the weight of duty and expectation. Such enduring symbols tap into what we call collective memory, a reservoir of shared experiences and archetypes that resonate subconsciously. The image is not static; its meaning evolves, influenced by the viewer's own cultural and psychological landscape, constantly shifting across time.